Transfer agent for the preparation of a functional or telechelic polyolefin

ABSTRACT

A compound and the use thereof to prepare a functional or telechelic polyolefin is provided. compound has the following formula (II): 
       Y((CH 2 ) p —B′) m    (II), wherein
 
     m=2 or 3; 
     Y being an alkaline earth metal or zinc when m=2, 
     Y being aluminium when m=3; 
     B′ being selected from the group comprising N(SiMe 3 ) 2 ; N(SiMe 2 CH 2 CH 2 SiMe 2 ); C 6 F 5 ; C 3 F 7 ; C 6 F 13 ; para-C 6 H 4 —NMe 2 ; para-C 6 H 4 —O-Me; para-C 6 H 4 —N(SiMe 3 ) 2 ; and CH(OCH 2 CH 2 O); and 
     p being an integer from 0 to 50.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a 371 national phase entry of PCT/FR2015/053458,filed 11 Dec. 2015, which claims benefit of French Patent ApplicationNo. 1462328, filed 12 Dec. 2014, the entire contents of which areincorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to compounds referred to as functionaltransfer agents, and the catalytic systems comprising these functionaltransfer agents. These transfer agents may be used in a method forsynthesizing functional or telechelic polyolefins, but also functionalor telechelic polyolefins one (or each) end of the main polymer chain ofwhich has been functionalized. These polyolefins may be used asmatrix/base structure in organic, inorganic, hybrid or compositematerials.

RELATED ART

Generally, a polymer which may give rise to a new polymerization or anew reaction is referred to as a “functional polymer” in light of thereactivity of one of its chain ends, or “telechelic polymer” in light ofthe reactivity of each of its chain ends. In this type of molecule, thereactive groups situated at the chain ends do not originate frommonomers.

Several methodologies for synthesizing functional polyolefins based onethylene have been described in the prior art.

A first method consists in polymerizing the ethylene (and/or amono-alpha-olefin) in the presence of a two-component catalytic systembased on a transfer agent. This type of method makes it possibleespecially to obtain a polyolefin with a vinyl end group (Boisson,D'Agosto et al., Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2013, 52, 3438-3441). Thisvinyl end group may be chemically modified by means of additional steps(T. Chenal and M. Visseaux, “End-capped Oligomers of Ethylene, Olefinsand Dienes, by means of Coordinative Chain Transfer Polymerization usingRare Earth Catalysts”, INTECH, 2014, 4—Oligomerization of chemical andbiological compounds, chapter 1, pages 3-30).

A second method consists in chemically modifying the polyolefin, in bulkor in solution. These are generally radical-type reactions, which makeit possible to introduce functionality along the main polymer chain.However, this method has at least the two following drawbacks:

-   -   the formation of branched architectures which may adversely        affect the properties of the polyolefin,    -   the random introduction of functional groups, rather than in a        controlled manner at the end of the main polymer chain.

A third method consists in:

-   -   polymerizing a diene monomer in a controlled manner via the        anionic route,    -   functionalizing this polymer by a functional termination agent,    -   hydrogenating this polymer so as to obtain a functional        polyolefin.

This third method has the drawback of requiring a succession of stepsand the use of different types of solvents, which may make it complexand expensive.

Several routes for synthesizing telechelic polymers have been describedin the prior art. Nonetheless, in terms of synthesizing telechelicpolyolefins, three main methods have been developed:

(i) the first relates to the synthesis of a hydroxy telechelicpolybutadiene via the anionic route. The butadiene is firstlypolymerized before a step of hydrogenation of the unsaturations of thepolymer chain. The telechelic polyethylene obtained in this way hasidentical chain ends; it is also branched in light of the presence ofthe ethyl groups resulting from the 1,2- units of the butadiene. Thistype of polymer is commercially available under the name Kraton L2203.

(ii) another synthesis pathway relates to cyclooctadiene ring-openingmethathesis polymerization. The polymer obtained is then hydrogenated togive a hydroxy telechelic polyolefin (Hillmyer et al., Macromolecules1995, 28, 7256-7261).

(iii) finally, the living polymerization of ethylene in the presence ofa palladium-based complex has also been discussed. This complex makes itpossible not only to initiate the living polymerization reaction of theethylene, but also to functionalize the chain ends. The branchedtelechelic polyethylene obtained has either identical ester functions orone ester function and one ketone function at the chain ends (Brookhart,Macromolecules 2003, 36, 3085). In the same vein, the document US2007/0010639 describes the three-step synthesis of telechelicpolypropylene having polar chain ends. Olefinic monomers bearingprotected functional groups are used at the start of polymerization tocreate a short segment bearing these functions laterally.(Co)polymerization of propylene is then undertaken. A functional monomeris then used once again to form a second short terminal segment bearingfunctions laterally.

The term “living polymerization” is intended to mean a chain-growthpolymerization which does not comprise chain termination or transferreactions. Living polymerizations of olefins make it possible to preparepolymers which are functional at one or at both chain ends. However,within the field of olefin polymerization, living polymerizations arelimited by the fact that only a single chain is produced per transitionmetal, which poses a problem in terms of production costs.Polymerization by coordination catalysis has the advantage of producinga large number of chains per transition metal. There is therefore a needfor a system which makes it possible to prepare telechelic polyolefins,especially of polyethylene, under conditions of polymerization bycoordination catalysis which are satisfactory in terms of productioncosts.

Document WO2013/135314 describes a telechelic polyolefin, at least oneend of the polymer chain of which is necessarily a vinyl group, whichmay optionally be functionalized. This polyolefin is obtained bypolymerization of ethylene in the presence of a transfer agentcomprising a vinyl function. The method described in this prior artrelates more particularly to a polyolefin obtained by polymerization ofat least 95 mol % of ethylene, in the presence of a transfer agent ofdi(alkenyl)magnesium type preferably containing 6 to 9 CH₂ groupsbetween the magnesium and the vinyl function.

As regards the compounds of the prior art designated as functionaltransfer agents, they have certain limitations.

By way of example, WO2013/135314 describes functional transfer agents ofthe Mg((CH₂)₉—CH═CH₂)₂ type, which may be used to prepare telechelicpolyolefins. The latter have the drawback of providing a vinylfunctional group CH═CH₂ at one chain end, which function is devoid ofheteroatoms, which may constitute a limitation in certain applications.

Document US 2013/0274407 describes functional transfer agentscorresponding to the formula (AT) below. These compounds make itpossible to introduce, at one end of the polybutadiene chain, aromaticgroups bearing heteroatoms. However, the presence of an aromatic ringmay be limiting depending on the envisaged application.

The problem that embodiments of the present invention aims to solverelates especially to the synthesis of a polyolefin, one or both of theends of the main chain of which is/are functionalized and modifiable.This polyolefin may especially be a homopolyethylene or a copolymerobtained by copolymerization of ethylene with an α-monoolefin.

SUMMARY

The Applicants have developed a transfer agent which enables thepreparation of a polyolefin, at least one, and advantageously both, ofthe chain ends of which each has (have) a functional group. In otherwords, this is a transfer agent which enables the preparation of apolyolefin, at least one of the ends of which may readily react in orderto facilitate the incorporation of said polyolefin in, for example, ahydrophilic or hydrophobic environment, in organic, inorganic, hybrid orcomposite materials.

This polyolefin is advantageously telechelic (functionalization of bothends) and linear. It advantageously has two distinct chain ends, whichmay react selectively in light of their difference in reactivity.

The Applicants have developed compounds designated as functionaltransfer agent, and the method for preparation thereof.

The polyolefin, the synthesis of which is made possible by the use ofthe transfer agent in accordance with emdodiments of the invention,bears at least one chain end function, derived from the compounddesignated as functional transfer agent, corresponding to formula (II).

More precisely, the method for preparing a polyolefin having at leastone functionalized chain end comprises the following step (a):

-   -   (a) preparation of a compound of formula (I), by        homopolymerization of ethylene or by copolymerization of        ethylene and of an alpha-monoolefin in the presence of a        transfer agent of formula (II):

Y-(A-(CH₂)_(p)—B′)_(m)   (I)

Y((CH₂)_(p)B′)_(m)   (II)

-   -   -   in which:            -   when m=2, Y is an alkaline earth metal or zinc, and when                m=3, Y is aluminium;            -   A is a polymer chain obtained by polymerization of                ethylene or by copolymerization of ethylene and of an                alpha-monoolefin;            -   B′ is selected from the group comprising N(SiMe₃)₂;                N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); para-C₆H₄(NMe₂); para-C₆H₄(OMe);                C₆H₄(N(SiMe₃)₂); C₆F₅; C₃F₇; C₆F₁₃; and CH(OCH₂CH₂O);            -   p is an integer from 0 to 50, advantageously from 0 to                11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the present application, “an” alpha-monoolefin is intended to meanone or more alpha-monoolefins, preferably a single alpha-monoolefin.

The abovementioned compounds N(SiMe₃)₂; N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); C₆F₅; C₃F₇;C₆F₁₃; para-C₆H₄—NMe₂; para-C₆H₄—O-Me; para-C₆H₄—N(SiMe₃)₂; andCH(OCH₂CH₂O) correspond respectively to the following compounds (*denotes a carbon atom devoid of hydrogen and ** denotes a CH group):

Generally, the group B′ resulting from the transfer agent is not a vinylgroup.

Advantageously, the polymer chain A is a linear polyethylene or acopolymer obtained by copolymerization of ethylene and of analpha-monoolefin (a single polymerizable carbon=carbon double bond).Alpha-monoolefin is intended also to mean styrene and any other monomerof vinylaromatic type.

The alpha-monoolefin used in embodiments of the invention isadvantageously selected from the group comprising olefins of formulaCH₂═CH—C_(x)H_(2x+1) (x=1 to 6), styrene, and styrene derivatives.

Advantageously, the polymer chain A is a polymer of:

-   -   70 to 100 mol % of ethylene monomer, more advantageously 95 to        99.9 mol %;    -   0 to 30 mol % of an alpha-monoolefin selected from the group        comprising alpha-monoolefins, styrene and any other monomer of        vinylaromatic type, more advantageously 0.1 to 5 mol %;        advantageously, when the alpha-monoolefin is selected from the        group comprising olefins of formula CH₂═CH—C_(x)H_(2x+1) (x=1 to        6), styrene and styrene derivatives.

According to a preferred embodiment, the polymer chain A is a linearpolyethylene, that is to say an ethylene homopolymer of formula—(CH₂—CH₂)_(n)—, n being an integer advantageously from 7 to 3600, evenmore advantageously from 17 to 360.

The polymer chain A advantageously has a number-average molar mass ofbetween 200 g/mol and 100 000 g/mol, more advantageously between 500g/mol and 50 000 g/mol, more advantageously between 500 g/mol and 20 000g/mol, and even more advantageously between 500 g/mol and 10 000 g/mol.

The number-average molar mass may especially be obtained by sizeexclusion chromatography according to the general knowledge of thoseskilled in the art. By way of indication, those skilled in the art mayrefer to the protocol described in the document WO 2010/139450.

The transfer agent of formula (II) which may be in a method forpreparing a polyolefin of formula (I), (III) or (IV), is part ofembodiments of the present invention:

Z-A-(CH₂)_(p)—B′  (III)

Z-A-(CH₂)_(p)—B   (IV)

As already indicated, the transfer agent of formula (II)Y((CH₂)_(p)—B′)_(m) is advantageously defined by:

-   -   m=2 or 3;    -   Y is an alkaline earth metal or zinc when m=2;    -   Y is aluminium when m=3;    -   B′ is selected from the group comprising N(SiMe₃)₂;        N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); C₆F₅; C₃F₇; C₆F₁₃ ; para-C₆H₄—NMe₂;        para-C₆H₄—O-Me; para-C₆H₄—N(SiMe₃)₂; and CH(OCH₂CH₂O);    -   p is an integer from 0 to 50, advantageously from 0 to 11.

According to a particular embodiment, the integer p is at least equalto 1. It may thus be from 1 to 50 or from 1 to 11.

The polyolefins of formulae (I), (III) and (IV) are advantageouslylinear. The polyolefins of formulae (III) and (IV) advantageously havetwo distinct chain ends, which may react selectively in light of theirdifference in reactivity.

By way of example, the method for synthesizing the transfer agent offormula (II) advantageously comprises the reaction of the metal(especially when m=2 and Y═Mg) with a compound of formulaX—(CH₂)_(p)—B′, X being a halogen, preferably a bromine atom, B′ beingchosen from the group comprising N(SiMe₃)₂; N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); C₆F₅;C₃F₇; C₆F₁₃; para-C₆H₄—NMe₂; para-C₆H₄—O-Me; para-C₆H₄—N(SiMe₃)₂; andCH(OCH₂CH₂O); and p being an integer from 0 to 50.

On the other hand, when Y═Al, the transfer agent is advantageouslyprepared from AlCl₃.

According to a preferred embodiment, the group B′ of the transfer agentof formula (II) is advantageously N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂) or N(SiMe₃)₂.

The transfer agent is advantageously a magnesium compound.

According to a particular embodiment, it isMg[(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂)]₂ or Mg[(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₃)₂]₂, with p=1to 11, and preferentially p=3.

The polyolefin of formula (I) is advantageously obtained in amulti-component catalytic system comprising the transfer agent offormula (II) and a catalyst. This catalyst corresponds to a compoundmaking it possible to generate an active species for catalysing theformation of the polymer chain A. This may especially be a catalystbased on a transition metal or on a lanthanide, advantageously ametallocene comprising the base structure (Cp¹)(Cp²)M or E(Cp¹)(Cp²)M.

This catalyst makes it possible to carry out catalytic polymerization ofthe olefin (ethylene and where appropriate alpha-monoolefin) bycoordination/insertion, with a large number of polymer chains beingproduced per catalyst molecule.

M is generally a group 3 or 4 metal, or a lanthanide.

In addition, Cp¹ is advantageously a cyclopentadienyl, fluorenyl orindenyl group, this group being substituted or unsubstituted.

Cp² is advantageously a cyclopentadienyl, fluorenyl or indenyl group,this group being substituted or unsubstituted.

The group E is a group bridging the ligands Cp¹ and Cp². Themetallocenes with which the two groups Cp¹ and Cp² are bridged arecommonly referred to as ansa-metallocenes. The group E may especially beof formula M′R¹R² in which M′ is a group 14 element or a chain of group14 elements; R¹ and R² being identical or different and selected fromthe group comprising alkyl or aryl groups comprising from 1 to 20 carbonatoms. The group E may for example be —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—, or—Si(CH₃)₂—.

The compound based on a transition metal or a lanthanide may also have anon-metallocene structure, such as those defined in the review by V. C.Gibson and S. K. Spitzmesser (Chem. Rev. 2003, 103, 283-315).

Where appropriate, especially when the metal of the compound is not alanthanide or a group 3 metal, a cocatalyst may be used in combinationwith the catalyst described above. Those skilled in the art will knowhow to choose the appropriate cocatalyst.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the catalyst may beobtained from the metallocene compound of formula (C₅Me₅)₂MX₂Li(OEt₂)₂,M being a group 3 metal or a lanthanide, and X preferentially being ahalogen. This may advantageously be a compound of a lanthanide,preferably Nd, and especially (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li(OEt₂)₂.

The catalyst may also be obtained from a lanthanide metallocene compoundsuch as, for example, the compounds{(Me₂Si(C₁₃H₈)₂)Nd(μ-BH₄)[(μ-BH₄)Li(THF)]}₂, Me₂Si(C₁₃H₈)₂)Nd(BH₄)(THF),(Me₂Si(2,7-tBu₂-C₁₃H₆)₂)Nd(BH₄)(μ-BH₄)Li(ether)₃,Me₂Si(3-Me₃Si—C₅H₃)₂NdBH₄(THF)₂; {Me₂Si(3-Me₃Si—C₅H₃)₂NdCl};{Me₂Si(C₅H₄)(C₁₃H₈)NdCl}; and [Me₂Si(C₅H₄)(C₁₃H₈)Nd(BH₄)₂][Li(THF)].

The catalyst may especially be obtained from a borohydride metallocenecompound of a lanthanide, such as described in the document WO2007/054224.

Derivatives of the monofunctional polyolefin of formula (I), that is tosay any polyolefin resulting from the termination, for example byhydrolysis, of at least one of the chain ends of the polyolefin offormula (I) and from the modification of the group B′ according toreactions known to those skilled in the art, may also be preparedaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

Thus, in the method for preparing the polyolefin having at least onefunctionalized chain end, step (a) is advantageously followed by a step(b) which consists in reacting the compound of formula (I) with a chaintermination agent.

This termination agent may advantageously be a functionalization agent.

It enables the cleavage of the Y-A bonds of the polyolefin of formula(I).

According to a particular embodiment, step (b) may be followed by a step(c) which is a reaction for modification of the function B′, preferablya deprotection reaction, to give a function B.

The step (b) may especially be a step of functionalization by Z, whichmay be carried out:

-   -   by successive addition of B(OR)₃ and of NMe₃O, R being a C₁-C₄        alkyl; or    -   by addition of a functionalization agent, especially being able        to be selected from the group comprising iodine, sulphur,        oxygen, nitroxyl radicals; carbon dioxide; chlorosilanes such as        ClSiR₂H or Cl₂SiRH (R being an alkyl group having from 1 to 20        carbons); isobutene; alkoxysilanes such as SiMe₂(OMe)₂,        SiX(OMe)₃, SiXMe(OMe)₂ (X═(CH₂)_(n)Y, with n=1 to 20 and    -   Y═OMe, NMe₂, S(SiMe₂(CMe₃)), N(SiMe₃)₂; alkyl halides; aryl        halides; vinyl halides; and disulphides such as CS₂ or        tetraethylthiuram disulphide.

The step of functionalization by Z is advantageously carried out byaddition of iodine, or sulphur, or tetraethylthiuram disulphide orO,O-diethyl dithiobis[thioformate].

This second step of the method actually consists of introducing the Zgroup by cleaving the Y-A bonds of the compound of formula (I).

One of the advantages of the method for preparing the polyolefinconsists in being able to carry out all the steps (a-b or a-c) in situ.Indeed, unlike the methods of the prior art relating to the preparationof monofunctional or telechelic polyolefins, the method described abovemakes it possible to dispense with the steps ofseparation/isolation/purification of the intermediate compounds byvirtue of the fact that the second step can be carried out in situ. Thepolymerization and the functionalization may advantageously be carriedout successively, without intermediate purification step, and especiallyin the same reactor.

In addition, the polymerization has a pseudo-living nature, this methodmakes it possible to control the molar mass to obtain a relativelynarrow distribution of molar masses, advantageously less than 1.5.

The experimental conditions generally make it possible to control themolar mass of the polyolefin of formula (III) or (IV) but also itsdegree of functionalization of the ends by B′ (or B) and Z groups. Thedegree of functionalization may be estimated by % F:

% F=100×[number of B′ (or B) ends per chain]×[number of Z ends perchain], the maximum number of B′ (or B) ends per chain being fixed atmost at 1.

The numbers of B′ (or B) and Z ends are determined by NMR (nuclearmagnetic resonance) according to techniques known to those skilled inthe art.

The degree of functionalization may thus advantageously be greater than70%, and even more advantageously greater than 90%. In other words, themethod of embodiments of the invention makes it possible toadvantageously produce at least 90% of monofunctional or telechelicpolyolefins.

Advantageously, the step (b) makes it possible to obtain a polyolefin offormula (III) or (IV)

Z-A-(CH₂)_(p)—B′  (III)

Z-A-(CH₂)_(p)—B   (IV)

in which:

-   -   A is a polymer chain obtained by homopolymerization of ethylene        or by copolymerization of ethylene and of an alpha-monoolefin;    -   B′ is selected from the group comprising N(SiMe₃)₂;        N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); para-C₆H₄(NMe₂); para-C₆H₄(OMe);        C₆H₄(N(SiMe₃)₂); C₆F₅; C₃F₇; C₆F₁₃; CH(OCH₂CH₂O);    -   B is the function B′ or a function deriving from B′;    -   p is an integer from 0 to 50, advantageously from 0 to 11;    -   Z is a function selected from the group consisting of the        hydrogen atom; halogens; thiols; thiol derivatives; azides;        amines; alcohols; carboxylic acid function; isocyanates;        silanes; phosphorus-based derivatives; dithioesters,        dithiocarbamates; dithiocarbonates; trithiocarbonates;        alkoxyamines; vinyl function; dienes; and the group        -A-(CH₂)_(p)—B′.

When Z═H, the polyolefin of formula (III) or (IV) is advantageouslyobtained by cleavage of the Y-A bonds by hydrolysis, preferentially witha protic constituent such as methanol.

When Z≠H, the polyolefin of formula (III) or (IV) is telechelic. In thiscase, the groups A, B′, B are as described above, while Z is a functionselected from the group consisting of halogens; thiols; thiolderivatives; azides; amines; alcohols; carboxylic acid function;isocyanates; silanes; phosphorus-based derivatives; dithioesters,dithiocarbamates; dithiocarbonates; trithiocarbonates; alkoxyamines;vinyl function; dienes; and the group -A-(CH₂)_(p)—B′.

The present invention also enables the preparation of derivatives of thetelechelic (Z≠H) polyolefin of formula (III) or (IV), that is to say anypolyolefin resulting from the functionalization of at least one of thechain ends of the telechelic polyolefin of formula (III) or (IV). Thistherefore concerns the modification of the group B′ and/or the group Z,according to reactions known to those skilled in the art.

Modification of the group B′ to give a group B makes it possible toobtain a polyolefin of formula (IV) Z-A-(CH₂)_(p)—B, in which B denotesa function derived from the function B′. The function B generallydenotes either the function B′ or a function derived from B′, that is tosay a function obtained by modification of B according to reactionsknown to those skilled in the art. The function B may especially be NH₂,NH₃ ⁺X⁻ (with X=halogen, for example).

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the group Z in theformulae (III) and (IV) is a halogen—even more advantageously an iodineatom, I—or a dithiocarbamate such as diethyldithiocarbamate(S—C(═S)—N(Et)₂) or a dithiocarbonate such as S—C(═S)—OEt.

The ends of the main polymer chain of the telechelic polyolefin offormula (III) or (IV) may have two groups, in this instance B′ (or B)and Z, the respective reactivities of which are very different from oneanother, the Z function advantageously being distinct from the B′ (or B)function.

Consequently, and according to a particularly preferred embodiment, thetelechelic polyolefin is of formula (IV) B—(CH₂)_(p)-A-Z, Zpreferentially being an iodine atom or a dithiocarbamate, p being aninteger from 0 to 11, B preferentially being the group NH₃Cl.Advantageously, the polymer chain A is the polyethylene (CH₂—CH₂)_(n), nbeing an integer from 7 to 3600, advantageously from 17 to 360.

According to a particular embodiment, the telechelic polyolefin is offormula (IV) and is obtained when:

-   -   A is polyethylene;    -   A has an average molar mass of between 500 and 100 000 g/mol;    -   B=ClH₃N;    -   p=1 to 11;    -   Y═Mg;    -   Z═I;    -   the compound of formula (I) is prepared in the presence of the        catalyst employing the compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li(OEt₂)₂.

It may advantageously be obtained according to the method which consistsin:

-   -   preparing the compound of formula (I) (with A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n),        B′═(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); p=3; n=16 to 360) by        polymerization of ethylene, CH₂═CH₂, in the presence of        (C₅Me₅)₂NdX₂Li(OEt₂)₂, X being a halogen, and of transfer agent        Mg((CH₂)₃—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂))₂;    -   functionalizing by Z, by addition of I₂ and modification of the        group B′ to give the group B═ClH₃N so as to obtain the        telechelic polyolefin ClH₃N—(CH₂)₃—(CH₂—CH₂)_(n)—I.

In relation to derivatives of the monofunctional or telechelicpolyolefin of formula (III) or (IV), they may, as already mentioned, beobtained by the method described above, especially by modification of atleast one of the ends of the telechelic polyolefin, preferably thefunction B′ (or B), in a step subsequent to the functionalization by Z.

Indeed, in light of the groups B′ (or B) and Z of the telechelicpolyolefin of formula (III) or (IV), the two groups may be easilymodified subsequently by organic chemistry, to introduce new groupseither via the group Z or via the group B′ (or B) as has been detailedfor example with monofunctional polyethylenes by D'Agosto, Boisson etal. (R. Briquel, J. Mazzolini, T. Le Bris, O. Boyron, F. Boisson, F.Delolme, F. D'Agosto, C. Boisson, R. Spitz, Angew. Chem. Int. Eng. Ed.,47, 9311-9313 (2008); J. Mazzolini, R. Briquel, I. Mokthari, O. Boyron,V. Monteil, F. Delolme, D. Gigmes, D. Bertin, F. D'Agosto, C. Boisson,Macromolecules 43, 7495-7503 (2010); M. Unterlass, E. Espinosa, F.Boisson, F. D'Agosto, C. Boisson, K. Ariga, I. Khalakhan, R. Charvet, JP. Hill, Chem. Commun. 47, 7057-7059 (2011); Mazzolini, O. Boyron, V.Monteil, D. Gigmes, D. Bertin, F. D'Agosto, C. Boisson, Macromolecules44, 3381-3387 (2011); E. Espinosa, M. Glassner, C. Boisson, C. BarnerKowollik, F. D'Agosto, Macromol. Rapid Commun. 32, 1447-1453 (2011); I.German, W. Khelifi, S. Norsic, C. Boisson, F. D'Agosto, Angew. Chem.Int. Engl. Ed., 52, 3438-3441(2013)).

Thus, the telechelic polyolefin of formula (III), B′—(CH₂)_(p)-A-Z (or(IV) B—(CH₂)_(p)-A-Z), may be subsequently modified.

The (telechelic or non-telechelic) polyolefins (III) or (IV) and theirderivatives may be used as additive for the modification of organic,inorganic, hybrid or composite materials, or as reactive synthon forpolymerization.

The fields of interest of the present invention especially relate,non-limitingly, to additives for polyolefins, modifiers of organic andinorganic fillers, cosmetics, adhesives, inks, waxes, lubricants orcoatings.

The telechelic or non-telechelic (Z═H) polyolefins and their derivativesmay be used in the context of preparation of original materials orarchitectures, based especially on polyethylene and polypropylene.

Unlike the methods of the prior art, embodiments of the presentinvention make it possible to obtain, in a single step, a (telechelic ornon-telechelic) polyolefin comprising a chain end of ammonium, amine,acetal, aldehyde, fluoroalkyl ether or perfluoroaryl type. It is thenature of the transfer agent, and especially its group B′, which enablesthis direct, and rapid, functionalization. The presence of an ammoniumfunction at the chain end is particularly attractive with the aim offacilitating its incorporation into more complex organic or inorganicstructures.

The invention and the resultant advantages thereof will become clearerfrom the following illustrative and non-limiting examples

Exemplary Embodiments

Polyethylenes of formula (IV) were prepared from the transfer agent MgR₂(R═(CH₂)₃—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂) or (CH₂)₃—N(SiMe₃)₂) described below.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). High-resolution NMR spectroscopy wascarried out on a Bruker DRX 400 spectrometer operating at 400 MHz forprotons. The acquisitions were carried out at 363 K using a 5 mm QNPprobe. The samples were analysed at a concentration of 5-15% by weight.A mixture of tetrachloroethylene (TCE) and deuterated benzene (C₆D₆)(2/1 v/v) was used as solvent. Chemical shifts are given in ppm unitsrelative to tetramethylsilane as internal reference.

Size exclusion chromatography (SEC). High-temperature size exclusionchromatography (HT-SEC) analyses were carried out using a Viscotekapparatus (Malvern Instruments) fitted with 3 columns (PLgel Olexis 300mm×7 mm I. D., Agilent Technologies) and 3 detectors (refractometer,viscometer and light scattering). 200 μl of a solution of sample at aconcentration of 5 mg·ml⁻¹ were eluted in 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene using aflow rate of 1 ml min⁻¹ at 150° C. The mobile phase was stabilized with2,6-di(tert-butyl)-4-methylphenol (200 mg l⁻¹). The OmniSEC software wasused to acquire and analyse the data. The molar masses are calculatedusing a calibration curve obtained from polyethylene standards (M_(p):170, 395, 750, 1110, 2155, 25 000, 77 500, 126 000 g·mol⁻¹) from PolymerStandard Service (Mainz).

EXAMPLE 1 Preparation of the transfer agent MgR₂(R=1-propyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane=(CH₂)₃—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂))

2.6 g (2 equivalents) of magnesium, then 50 ml of dry dibutyl ether areintroduced into a 100 ml round-bottomed flask under an inert argonatmosphere.

The round-bottomed flask is placed in a cold bath at 0° C., and next13.3 ml (15 g, 1 equivalent) of1-(3-bromopropyl)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane areadded dropwise. The solution is left, with magnetic stirring, togradually return to room temperature.

The solution of magnesium1-(3-bromopropyl)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane isthen recovered by pipe transfer into a Schlenk flask under argon, inorder to remove the unreacted magnesium.

5.5 ml (1.2 equivalents) of dioxane are added over this solution inorder to shift the Schlenk equilibrium to form the compound MgR₂(R=1-propyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane) and toprecipitate MgBr₂.

This solution is then filtered over celite under argon, in order torecover MgR₂ in solution in dibutyl ether.

EXAMPLE 2 Preparation of the transfer agent MgR₂(R=1-propyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane=(CH₂)₃—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂))

2.6 g (2 equivalents) of magnesium, then 50 ml of dry THF are introducedinto a 100 ml round-bottomed flask under an inert argon atmosphere.

Next, 13.3 ml (15 g, 1 equivalent) of1-(3-bromopropyl)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane areadded dropwise at room temperature. The solution is left with magneticstirring for one hour.

The solution of magnesium1-(3-bromopropyl)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane isthen recovered by pipe transfer into a Schlenk flask under argon, inorder to remove the unreacted magnesium.

5.5 ml (1.2 equivalents) of dioxane are added over this solution inorder to shift the Schlenk equilibrium to form the compound MgR₂(R=1-propyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disilacyclopentane) and toprecipitate MgBr₂.

This solution is then filtered over celite under argon, in order torecover MgR₂ in solution in THF.

The THF is then distilled under vacuum at room temperature and the MgR₂is then dissolved in dibutyl ether.

¹H NMR (THF-d8—400 MHz—298 K) δ: ppm=2.63 (m, —CH₂—N), 1.60 (m,—CH₂—CH₂—N), 0.64 (s, N—Si(CH₃)₂—CH₂—), 0.01 (s, N—Si(CH₃)₂—CH₂—), −0.78(Mg—CH₂—).

EXAMPLE 3 Preparation of the polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (with Z═H;A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═(NH₃Cl)

21.7 ml (4.77 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 2 (0.22 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 20.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (32μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The polymer is then filtered, washed with methanol, then dried.

15.3 g of polyethylene CH₃—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₃Cl are recovered(functionality 82%, Mn=1850 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=8.29 (broad, —NH₃Cl),2.87 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂—NH₃Cl), 1.73 (quin, J=7 Hz, —CH₂CH₂NH₃Cl) 1.24(broad, (CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 0.83 (t, J=7 Hz, −CH₂−CH₃).

¹³C NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 101 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=39.72, 32.21 30.00((CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 29.61, 29.25, 27.80, 26.85, 22.90, 14.04.

EXAMPLE 4 Preparation of the polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (with Z═H;A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═NH₂)

21.7 ml (4.77 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 2 (0.22 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 21.4 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (33μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The resulting suspension is poured into a 1 M methanol/NaOH solution andstirred for 1 hour. The polymer is then filtered, washed with methanol,then dried.

15.0 g of polyethylene CH₃—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₂ are recovered(functionality 80%, Mn=1820 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) dppm=2.53 (broad, CH₂—NH₂),1.24 (broad, (CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 0.83 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂—CH₃).

¹³C NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 101 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=42.55, 34.44, 32.2130.00 ((CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 29.61, 27.25, 22.90, 14.04.

EXAMPLE 5 Preparation of the telechelic polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (withZ═I; A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═NH₃Cl)

8.4 ml of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 2 (in solution in dibutylether at 0.3 M) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing400 ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 10.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (Mg/Ndmole ratio=150) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of 2.5 g of iodine in THF (I/Mg mole ratio=4) is added andthe medium is stirred for 2 hours.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The resultant suspension is poured into methanol, then the polymer isfiltered, washed in methanol, then dried.

4.5 g of telechelic polyethylene I—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₃Cl arerecovered (functionality 100%, Mn=1350 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=8.29 (broad, —NH₃Cl),2.94 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂I), 2.87 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂—NH₃Cl), 1.73 (quin, J=7Hz, —CH₂CH₂NH₃Cl), 1.66 (quin, J=7 Hz, —CH₂CH₂I), 1.24 (broad,(CH₂CH₂)_(n)).

¹³C NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 101 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=39.72, 30.77, 30.00((CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 29.68, 29.25, 28.81, 27.80, 26.85, 4.91.

EXAMPLE 6 Preparation of the transfer agent MgR₂(R═N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)propan-1-amine=(CH₂)₃—N(SiMe₃)₂)

2.6 g (2 equivalents) of magnesium, then 50 ml of dry THF are introducedinto a 100 ml round-bottomed flask under an inert argon atmosphere.

15 g (1 equivalent) of 3-bromo-N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)propan-1-amine arethen added dropwise at room temperature. The solution is left withmagnetic stirring for one hour.

The solution of magnesium 3-bromo-N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)propan-1-amineis then recovered by pipe transfer into a Schlenk flask under argon, inorder to remove the unreacted magnesium.

5.5 ml (1.2 equivalents) of dioxane are added over this solution inorder to shift the Schlenk equilibrium to form the compound MgR₂(R=N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)propan-1-amine) and to precipitate MgBr₂.

This solution is then filtered over celite under argon, in order torecover MgR₂ in solution in THF.

The THF is then distilled under vacuum at room temperature and the MgR₂is then dissolved in dibutyl ether to obtain a 0.40 M solution.

EXAMPLE 7 Preparation of the polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (with Z═H;A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═NH₃Cl)

6.3 ml (2.52 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 6 (0.40 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 10.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (16μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The polymer is then filtered, washed with methanol, then dried.

5.3 g of polyethylene CH₃—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₃Cl are recovered(functionality 84%, Mn=1440 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=8.62 (broad, —NH₃Cl),2.86 (—CH₂—NH₃Cl), 1.75 (quin, J=7 Hz, —CH₂CH₂NH₃Cl) 1.29 (broad,(CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 0.86 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂—CH₃).

EXAMPLE 8 Preparation of the polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (with Z═H;A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═NH₂)

6.3 ml (2.52 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 6 (0.40 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 10.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (16μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The resulting suspension is poured into a 1 M methanol/NaOH solution andstirred for 1 hour. The polymer is then filtered, washed with methanol,then dried.

5.0 g of polyethylene CH₃—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₂ are recovered(functionality 84%, Mn=1440 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) dppm=2.53 (broad, CH₂—NH₂),1.24 (broad, (CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 0.83 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂—CH₃).

EXAMPLE 9 Preparation of the polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (with Z═OH;A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═NH₃Cl)

6.3 ml (2.52 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 6 (0.40 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 10.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (16μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and a solution of triethyl borate B(OEt)₃ (2.55 ml in 10 ml oftoluene, B/Mg=6) is added under argon. The medium is stirred for 2 h,then a solution of trimethylamine N-oxide TAO (2.5 g in 20 ml of DMF,TAO/B=1.5) is added under argon.

The medium is stirred for 2 h then the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The polymer is then filtered, washed with methanol, then dried.

6.3 g of polyethylene HO—CH₂—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₃Cl are recovered(functionality 70%, Mn=1940 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=8.63 (broad, —NH₃Cl),3.40 (t, J=7 Hz, HO—CH₂—) 2.86 (broad, —CH₂—NH₃Cl), 1.75 (quin, J=7 Hz,—CH₂CH₂NH₃Cl) 1.29 (broad, (CH₂CH₂)_(n)).

EXAMPLE 10 Preparation of the polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (withZ═S—(C═S)—N(CH₂—CH₃)₂; A=(CH₂—CH₂)_(n), and B═NH₃Cl)

6.3 ml (2.52 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 6 (0.40 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 10.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (16μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and a solution of tetraethylthiuram disulphide (1.5 g, 2equivalents in 20 ml of toluene) is added under argon.

The medium is stirred for 2 h then the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The polymer is then filtered, washed with methanol, then dried.

5.6 g of polyethylene (CH₃—CH₂)₂N—(S═C)—S—CH₂—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₃Clare recovered (functionality 100%, Mn=1480 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=8.59 (broad, —NH₃Cl),3.64 (q, J=7 Hz (CH₃—CH₂)₂N—(S═C)—S), 3.30 (t, J=7 Hz,(CH₃—CH₂)₂N—(S═C)—S—CH₂—) 2.88 (broad, —CH₂—NH₃Cl), 1.77 (broad,—CH₂CH₂NH₃Cl), 1.67 (quin, J=7 Hz, (CH₃—CH₂)₂N—(S═C)—S—CH₂—CH₂—), 1.29(broad, (CH₂CH₂)_(n)), 1.04 (t, J=7 Hz (CH₃—CH₂)₂N—(S═C)—S).

EXAMPLE 11 Preparation of the telechelic polyolefin Z-A-(CH₂)₃—B (withZ═I; A=(CH₂—CH₂ _(n), and B═NH₃Cl)

6.3 ml (2.52 mmol) of MgR₂ prepared according to Example 6 (0.40 M indibutyl ether) are introduced into a round-bottomed flask containing 400ml of dry toluene.

The solution is transferred, under argon atmosphere, into a 500 mlreactor.

Next, a solution of 10.7 mg of compound (C₅Me₅)₂NdCl₂Li.(OEt₂)₂ (16μmol) is transferred.

The argon is then eliminated under vacuum and the reactor is pressurizedto 3 bar of ethylene at 70° C. The pressure in the reactor is keptconstant during the polymerization by means of a tank.

When the desired amount of ethylene has been consumed, the reactor isdegassed and the temperature is brought to 20° C.

A solution of 2.5 g of iodine in THF (I/Mg mole ratio=4) is added andthe medium is stirred for 2 hours.

A solution of methanol/HCl is added and the medium is stirred for 1hour.

The resultant suspension is poured into methanol, then the polymer isfiltered, washed in methanol, then dried.

6.3 g of telechelic polyethylene I—(CH₂CH₂)_(n)—(CH₂)₃NH₃Cl arerecovered (functionality 100%, Mn=1300 g·mol⁻¹ by NMR).

¹H NMR (2/1 v/v TCE/C₆D₆, 400 MHz, 363 K) d ppm=8.30 (broad, —NH₃Cl),2.91 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂I), 2.86 (t, J=7 Hz, —CH₂—NH₃Cl), 1.73 (quin, J=7Hz, —CH₂CH₂NH₃Cl), 1.63 (quin, J=7 Hz, —CH₂CH₂I), 1.26 (broad,(CH₂CH₂)_(n)).

1. A compound of formula (II) Y((CH₂)_(p)—B′)_(m), in which: m=2or3; Yis an alkaline earth metal or zinc when m=2, Y is aluminum when m=3; B′is selected from the group comprising N(SiMe₃)₂; N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂);C₆F₅; C₃F₇; C₆F₁₃; para-C₆H₄—NMe₂; para-C₆H₄—O-Me; para-C₆H₄—N(SiMe₃)₂;and CH(OCH₂CH₂O); and p is an integer from 1 to
 50. 2. A compoundaccording to claim 1, wherein p is an integer from 1 to
 11. 3. Acompound according to claim 1, wherein the compound corresponds to theformula Mg[(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂)]₂, with p=1 to
 11. 4. Acompound according to claim 1, wherein the compound corresponds to theformula Mg[(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₃)₂]₂, with p=1to
 11. 5. A method forsynthesis of the compound of formula (II) Y((CH₂)_(p)—B′)_(m),comprising the reaction of the metal Y with a compound of formulaX—(CH₂)_(p)—B′; X being a halogen; m=2; Y═Mg; B′ being selected from thegroup comprising N(SiMe₃)₂; N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂); C₆F₅; C₃F₇; C₆F₁₃;para-C₆H₄—NMe₂; para-C₆H₄—O-Me; para-C₆H₄—N(SiMe₃)₂; and CH(OCH₂CH₂O);and p being an integer from 1 to
 50. 6. A method according to claim 5,wherein X is a bromine atom.
 7. A compound according to claim 1, whereinY is an alkaline earth metal.
 8. A compound according to claim 1,wherein Y is magnesium.
 9. A compound according to claim 1, wherein Y iszinc.
 10. A compound according to claim 1, wherein Y is aluminum.
 11. Acompound according to claim 1, wherein B′ is N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂).
 12. Acompound according to claim 1, wherein B′ is N(SiMe₃)₂.
 13. A compoundaccording to claim 1, wherein the compound corresponds to the formulaMg[(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₂CH₂CH₂SiMe₂)]₂, with p=3.
 14. A compound accordingto claim 1, wherein the compound corresponds to the formulaMg[(CH₂)_(p)—N(SiMe₃)₂]₂, with p=3.